Table of Contents
Making a rude comment about the Royal Family
Consider this Thailand’s strictest law. Any insult, mockery, or defacing of images of the monarchy is a criminal offense. Even stepping on Thai currency with the King’s image or careless remarks online can lead to arrest.
Penalty: Up to 15 years in prison per offense.
Vaping or using e-cigarette in public
Possession, use, sale, or import of e-cigarettes and vape liquid is banned. Many expect Thailand to be party-friendly, but tourists have been fined or even detained for vaping in public. Many are often caught off guard by the harsh penalties for something seen as casual elsewhere.
Penalty: Fines up to 30,000 THB (~$900) or jail.
Taking “funny” selfies with Buddha statues
If you think it’ll make the coolest selfie ever to pose a certain way with one of the many statues in the country, think again. Sitting on, climbing, or taking disrespectful photos with Buddha statues is illegal.
Penalty: Fines, possible deportation, or imprisonment.
Unauthorized drone usage
Yes, even drones with cameras must be licensed, even if it’s for recreational use. Flying drones without Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) registration is illegal.
Penalty: Fines up to 100,000 THB (~$3,000) and/or jail time.
Collecting shells or coral as souvenirs
Collecting coral, seashells, or interacting with marine life in protected areas is illegal. You’ll find strict enforcement in marine parks like Phi Phi Islands. Feeding wild monkeys or elephants is also restricted by law.
Penalty: Heavy fines, possible jail.
Carrying certain medications
Carrying pseudoephedrine (common in cold meds), codeine, or certain prescription drugs without medical documentation is illegal. Tourists unaware of these controlled substances risk seizure and fines.
Penalty: Confiscation, fines, possible criminal charges.
Public nudity/topless sunbathing
Public nudity is considered indecent exposure and is illegal.Tourists exposing themselves on beaches (even in party areas) can face police action.
Penalty: Fines, possible arrest for repeat offenses.
Motorbike riding without valid license (IDP)
Riding motorbikes without an International Driving Permit (IDP) is illegal. Police checkpoints frequently fine tourists riding without proper documentation.
Penalty: Fines (~500-1,000 THB), possible impound of the vehicle.
Taking unauthorized pictures at restricted areas
Taking photos of military zones, border checkpoints, or royal properties without permission is illegal. Drone flights over such zones are strictly prohibited.
Penalty: Fines, possible equipment confiscation, or arrest.
Littering
Littering in public places is illegal in Thailand. Authorities, especially in tourist areas, have been known to issue on-the-spot fines for even small items like cigarette butts.
Penalty: Fines of up to 2,000 THB
